The President is pleased to approve the U.S.-India Agreement for Peaceful
Nuclear Cooperation (also known as the 123 Agreement). The conclusion of
this agreement, which completes the U.S-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation
Initiative, has been a priority for both President Bush and Prime Minister
Singh, and strengthens the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership.

This historic achievement will bolster international nonproliferation
efforts, provide economic and business opportunities in both countries, and
help India address its growing energy needs in an environmentally
responsible manner. The President looks forward to working with Congress to
ensure passage on the agreement this year.

The President also looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Singh to the
White House on September 25, 2008, to strengthen the Strategic Partnership
and build upon our progress in other areas of cooperation, such as
agriculture, education, trade, and defense.